Las Vegas Raiders 7-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: A QB1 at pick No. 7
Las Vegas Raiders 7-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: A QB1 at pick No. 7
. LB/DB. Cougars . Daiyan Henley. 203. player. 846
If you’re looking for versatility, then look no further than Washington states Daiyan Henley who started his career at Nevada as a wide receiver before transitioning to defensive back and then linebacker. Depending on the mock draft website, some have him listed as a safety and others as a linebacker but on Washington State’s official depth chart, he was listed as the WIL backer.
After five years at Nevada, he transferred to Washington State and became one of the leaders on the Cougar defense. He recorded 106 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, one interception, and three forced fumbles in 12 games for WSU.
The Raiders have had mixed success with these defensive backs turn linebackers, but they seem to appreciate the athleticism and versatility that they bring to the game. They gave up early on Tanner Muse, but Divine Deablo looks to be part of the team’s long-term plans and had a great end to the 2021 season before struggling this year under Patrick Graham.
Patrick Graham does seem to like big safeties, but he can also appreciate what Henley brings to the linebacker position in terms of athleticism and coverage. His 4.55 second 40 may be on the slow side for a safety but if he is an outside linebacker then that is excellent for the position.
Henley’s size is a concern as a linebacker but that is less of an issue when he is playing in space or in coverage. We can see him contribute immediately on special teams and even more so on defense when the Raiders decide where on the field he will be deployed.